TEAM DEVELOPMENTThe Pioneer Sailing Trust team work closely with group leaders to develop a day that meets the needs of the group.READ MORE

TRAININGWe also offer Royal Yachting Association qualifications on board Pioneer, which is a 3 day course.READ MORE

PRIVATE HIREPioneer is also available for private hire for groups of up to 12 people.READ MORE

CORPORATE EXPERIENCEWe offer a corporate day experience tailored to suit the needs of the company.READ MORE

REGATTASThere are several local Regattas through the sailing season. Racing amongst the other local smacks is a fantastic experience to be involved in. READ MORE

WELCOME TO THE PIONEER WEBSITE

Originally built in 1864, the 70ft Essex smack Pioneer fell into decay after a life spent dredging oysters in the North Sea. An audacious restoration project by the Pioneer Sailing Trust recovered the wreck in 1998 and restored her. Pioneer’s new life as a sail training vessel can take up to 16 people and is used as a vehicle to facilitate learning skills and exploring new and adventurous territory whilst in a unique environment. The Trust has also maintained the boat building ethos by developing a specialist training facility at Harker’s Yard, Brightlingsea where young Apprentices learn boat-building skills and develop essential values needed to seek future employment. Hundreds of young people benefit from their time at Pioneer Sailing Trust each year, whether on a sailing adventure, work experience in the boat yard, or an Apprenticeship. The Trust is passionate about developing and supporting young people through education and new experiences.

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THE PIONEER SAILING TRUST

The Pioneer Sailing Trust was set up in 1999 to restore back to sailing condition the last remaining first class Essex Skillinger smack Pioneer.
She was another example of Britain's Maritime Heritage left to perish.

CAN YOU HELP US

Donations: Donations however small are very much needed and will be greatly appreciated. We Need:Contact with organisations who might like to bring groups of up to 12 sailing on Pioneer. Anyone who might like to help out in some way, or has a good idea as to how they might help an organisation such as ourselves will be welcome.
Please contact us on 01206 303373 or email usadmin@pioneersailingtrust.org.uk